Paul Ibe, media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has raised fresh concerns over the management of Nigeria’s presidential airfleet under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing issues of cost, transparency, and accountability.
Ibe questioned the reported purchase of a used Airbus aircraft for about $100 million, arguing that Nigerians deserve clear explanations on the procurement process, the age of the aircraft, and whether the expenditure represents value for money, especially at a time of economic hardship.
He also expressed concern over the use of a chartered aircraft operated by Luxaviation for some presidential trips, despite the acquisition of the Airbus. According to him, this raises questions about why a charter service is being relied upon, the cost implications for taxpayers, and the security considerations of using non-state aircraft for presidential travel.
In addition, Ibe queried the status of an old presidential Boeing jet which was reportedly re-registered under a foreign registry, demanding clarity on whether the aircraft was sold, transferred, or repurposed, and under what terms.
He warned that frequent use of chartered flights could pose security and operational risks, as such aircraft may not be fully equipped with the specialised systems typically installed in presidential jets.
Ibe called on the Federal Government to provide full disclosure on the acquisition, deployment, and disposal of aircraft in the presidential fleet, insisting that public assets must be managed with openness and accountability.
The comments have reignited public debate over the cost, necessity, and transparency surrounding Nigeria’s presidential airfleet.
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